Poll: Choose fate of Saginaw's historic Hill House

View full sizeThe Susie Hill home, 523 S. Jefferson in Saginaw's Cathedral District appeared on the state demolition request list. Saginaw does not own the home; it is owned by Neighborhood Renewal Services and they are confused as to why the city would submit it for demolition.File | MLive.com

SAGINAW, MI — Fundraising leaders later this month say they plan to decide how next to proceed in efforts to save one of Saginaw’s most historic homes.

MLive last week published a series on the Hill House, a historic home built by one of the region's wealthiest 19th-century lumber barons, Clarence Hill.

The home's restoration project — which could transform the Cathedral District property into a museum — has hit a considerable bump since the nonprofit group called Friends of Hill House formed last year, said its chairman, Paul Virciglio, a former Saginaw City Council member.

The cost of resurrecting the Hill House ballooned from an initial $700,000 estimate to a price tag reaching $1.5 million.

Virciglio said his organization called for help to raise money from the Saginaw Community Foundation, but officials there say funds are scarce.

“Their response is, ‘It’s a worthwhile project, but because of other demands..,’” he says. “We’re back to square one.”

Virciglio said his group will meet later in January to determine the next direction. The nonprofit may apply for grants tailored toward historic sites or instead attempt to transform Hill House into a commercial property, which would make the project eligible for tax credits, he said.

What would you like to see happen to Hill House?

Participate in the poll below and weigh in. Return to MLive on Thursday for the results.